HOONAH FISHING FIELD GUIDE
Stream Fishing on Chichagof: Four Hours of Salmon Runs, Spray and Quiet
A four-hour, guided stream-fishing excursion on Chichagof Island with Brown Bear Lodge & Excursions that covers gear, species, and logistics for a reliable, shore-based angling experience.
Stream Fishing on Chichagof: Four Hours of Salmon Runs, Spray and Quiet.
On Chichagof Island, narrow, cold streams thread rainforest and muskeg into pockets of furious activity once salmon and trout arrive. Brown Bear Lodge & Excursions runs a four-hour stream-fishing program that pairs narrated scenic transportation with an experienced guide and ultra-light spinning gear to put anglers into those runs; in a few productive hours at one of the cool, gorgeous streams you can expect to target a range of salmon and trout while watching for mink, marten, otter, beavers and even the occasional brown bear.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Salmon and Trout Runs
Depending on season you can angle for Dolly Varden and Cutthroat trout and for Pink (Humpy), Chum (Dog), Coho (Silver) salmon, and Steelhead—fishing is with an ultra-light spinning rod casting artificial lures and is operated as a catch-and-release program.
Decades of Local Knowledge
Your fishing expert guide brings more than 45 years of experience, providing instruction, tackle and assistance for any experience level to maximize your time on the water.
Wildlife and Scenic Transit
The program includes roundtrip narrated scenic transportation to the stream and offers frequent opportunities to spot wildlife—mink, marten, otter, beavers and possible brown bear sightings are noted in program materials.
What the day feels like
What the Four Hours Feel Like
The tour unfolds as a short, narrated transfer to a nearby stream where you spend several focused hours with an expert guide, casting ultra-light rods and working artificial lures in current seams and pools; the rhythm is practical and tactical—learn a few casts, test a few lures, and cover water where fish are congregating, with regular instruction and support from your guide.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this excursion fits—and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The excursion is four hours long; the earliest departure time is 30 minutes after your cruise ship's arrival—exact tour times are communicated on finalized ticket vouchers.
Gear, tackle and an ultra-light spinning rod casting artificial lures are provided; everyone 16 and older must obtain a one-day fishing license ($25).
The trip includes roundtrip narrated scenic transportation and meets at the Excursion Hub; detailed meeting instructions are included on final vouchers.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the excursion?
The stream-fishing excursion lasts four hours.
Where do we meet for the tour?
This tour meets at the Excursion Hub; finalized ticket vouchers include full directions and detailed meeting instructions.
What equipment and tackle are provided?
On this fishing expedition you are provided with an ultra-light spinning rod and casting artificial lures; gear, tackle and assistance are provided for any experience level.
Do I need a fishing license?
Yes—a one-day fishing license is required for everyone 16 years and older and is listed at $25.
Is the program catch-and-release?
The program is operated as catch and release.
When can the tour depart relative to my cruise ship’s arrival?
The earliest departure time is 30 minutes after your cruise ship's arrival; a detailed schedule with the actual tour time will be emailed to you.
What species might I catch?
Depending on the time of year, angling opportunities include Dolly Varden trout, Cutthroat trout, Pink (Humpy) Salmon, Chum (Dog) Salmon, Coho (Silver) Salmon, and Steelhead.